This image shows the amazing drainage change at Parley

By Alistair March 25, 2016 06:16 Updated

This picture shows the dramatic impact drainage work that was carried out at Parley Golf Centre in Dorset has had. On the left is how the course looked in January 2014, prior to a £250,000 programme of improvements, and on the right is the same angle from January 2016.

“Where once greens and fairways would be under several feet of water during wet periods, the same ground this winter remained dry,” said a spokesman.

Contrasting pictures show swans on the water in 2014 but this year at the same time and place the fairway was playable despite similar heavy rainfall.

Daryl Dampney, manager of the centre, said: “It was very important for us to address the drainage issues on a single part of the course.

“We have added drainage ditches but also have significantly raised the ground level in areas.

“The work is ongoing but we have been really pleased this winter because despite the rainfall it has not flooded as it once did.

“We are creating what we plan to be the finest practice facility in the area and it will include indoor and outdoor elements and be suitable for children and beginners as well as professionals.”